by 145 reviews.
A Comprehensive Review of the eufy Security Video Doorbell Camera C31
Technology has greatly evolved our daily experiences with home security, introducing convenient and innovative solutions. One such product is the eufy Security Video Doorbell Camera C31. This video doorbell promises crystal-clear 2K full HD clarity, dual power options (battery or hardwire), and seamless integration with smart home devices. Meeting the need for home-security enthusiasts and casual users alike, this video doorbell offers a user-friendly installation process, adaptable power sources, and an added layer of protection for your household.
The eufy Video Doorbell C31 provides numerous possibilities for maintaining your home's security. Whether you require continuous 24/7 recording via hardwire power or prefer the flexibility of battery power, this video doorbell gives you ultimate control. The C31 is compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, integrating conveniently into any smart home setup. But does it truly deliver on its promises? Let's find out through an exploration of the pros and cons as identified by actual users.
Quality and User Experience
Pros: Crystal Clear Visuals and Usability
A consistently praised aspect of the eufy Video Doorbell Camera C31 is its impeccable video clarity. Numerous users have expressed their satisfaction with the sharp and detailed 2K video quality. Whether observed during daytime or nighttime, the level of detail and crispness have users remarking on how clear the view is for both expected and unexpected visitors. One reviewer notes, "Camera quality is awesome! It’s easy to set up," highlighting the doorbell’s favorable ease of use.
Additionally, the 4:3 view ratio provides a comprehensive view of approaching individuals, offering peace of mind by ensuring all pertinent details of activity near your doorway are captured. The incorporation of adaptive brightness further ensures clarity, regardless of light conditions.
Cons: Setup Instructions and Connectivity Issues
Despite the positive reviews concerning the quality, some users have criticized the doorbell's setup instructions. The initial printed directions are critiqued for their small font size, causing difficulties for those without magnifiers at hand. Furthermore, the detailed steps concerning app configurations and advanced settings are notably absent, requiring users to resort to online manuals and additional resources for setup assistance.
In terms of connectivity, a particular concern emerged with reports of occasional disconnects from WiFi over extended periods. Several users reported that while the connectivity issue seemed to correct itself initially, it remains an area of potential improvement and may necessitate firmware updates from eufy to enhance stability.
Features and Functionality
Pros: No Subscription Requirements
A distinct edge that the eufy Video Doorbell Camera holds over its competitors is the absence of mandatory subscription-based services. Users have expressed great appreciation for the local storage alternative, utilizing an SD card. With the ability to record and manage footage independently, you can save on recurring fees while retaining full control over your privacy. As one delighted customer put it, "No subscription needed, just an SD card. We are able to see what’s going on while we are gone."
Customization options for motion detection are another favorable feature. Enabling tailored activity zones means avoiding unnecessary alerts from incidental movement, such as passing cars or wandering animals in busy neighborhoods.
Cons: Limited Compatibility and Technical Support
Despite notable enhancements, the C31’s compatibility with eufy’s existing infrastructure requires attention. As expressed by users, the doorbell lacks immediate support for certain previously released Eufy components such as older HomeBase models. Compatibility restrictions have disappointed some long-time users, evident when some HomeKit functionalities were withdrawn in previous updates. “I was hesitant to invest anything more in Eufy,” stated a reviewer, indicating a need for clarity about backward compatible products.
There are also some concerns over technical customer support. While overall experiences were positive—with users citing responsive resolution from eufy—the initial complexities of technical queries call for an expansion in the support infrastructure to address sophisticated inquiries faster.
Power Options and Installation
Pros: Versatile Power Choices
The flexibility offered by dual power options is commendable. With a battery or hardwire power setup at your disposal, users enjoy the luxury of choosing what best suits their home’s specific needs. A user with a previous wired setup highlighted, "What intrigued me was that it had a battery, but could be hooked to normal doorbell wiring in order to keep the battery charged and provide coverage during power outage."
This option is particularly beneficial during power failures, ensuring your security measures remain steadfast. Additionally, opting for battery power accommodates users whose homes lack existing doorbell wiring.
Cons: Hardwiring Complexity
However, while versatility is appreciated, some challenges persist with the hardware-installation process. Reviewers noted the necessity of adapting existing chime setups due to compartment restrictions, requiring modification by either lowering installation height or creating new wiring holes. Furthermore, cramped wiring spaces have made mounting a more delicate task, with some users investing additional time to ensure proper doorbell fitting.
Additionally, while hardwired power allows for uninterrupted 24/7 surveillance, some installations might require bypassing of existing chimes, affecting ease of setup for some consumers, especially those less confident in electrical work.
Conclusion
The eufy Security Video Doorbell Camera C31 shows promising potential with its remarkable visuals, flexible installation methods, and subscription-free design. With enduring customer support and necessary connectivity updates, it stands as a formidable competitor amongst smart home security products. However, potential purchasers should consider the factors of setup complexity, connectivity limitations, and compatibility challenges when making their decision.
In conclusion, the eufy Security Video Doorbell Camera C31, with its appealing features and options, suits both new users seeking dependable video doorbell options, and seasoned eufy advocates willing to navigate the path for optimized doorbell installation and utility. It is a solid, long-term investment, offering security with a touch of convenience and clarity.
Specification eufy Security Video Doorbell Camera C31, 2K FHD Battery or Hardwire Powered(16~24V), Easy to Install, Quick-Release Battery, Live Video Call, 24/7 Recording(Wired), Human & Motion Detection:
Comments from Amazon:
Update after 2months. It stopped connecting to wifi and working. This is a terrible product and Eufy needs to do something about it. Orig Review: This doorbell cannot record 24/7 AND use an existing mechanical chime. Other than that it does work well and the resolution is great and human detection works as advertised. It would be nice if it had vehicle detection too.
I have been using Eufy exterior light cameras and doorbells for several years now. I really like the system for a couple reasons. First, I don't like the idea of my videos being maintained by a centralized vendor system. Second, I appreciate that there are no fees associated with using the system like so many others. In the past, I found the instructions to be well written and the packaging to be very good. The manual had a font that was large enough to be easily read. But what has always concerned me is the way they role out new products doesn't seem to show any concern for their previous customers. For example, when they dropped Apple Home (HomeKit) support when they moved from HomeBase 2 to HomeBase 3. At the same time, HomeBase 3 did not support a wired doorbell until this model was introduced several years later. So I've been open to change systems since they dropped support for Apple Home. What I would really like is support for Matter over Thread, but there aren't even any rumors the company is showing any interest in that. With that in mind, I was hesitant to invest anything more in Eufy, but a Black Friday deal on this doorbell. What intregued me was that it had a battery, but could be hooked to normal doorbell wiring in order to keep the battery charged an provide coverage during power outage. I just installed this so this is really an initial review. This is my initial impression. First off, as others have commented on, the directions are terrible. For one thing, the printed one in the package uses such a small font, you can only read it with a magnifying glass. There is a scan code that will take you to a manual and you can download a PDF that you can then read on any device ... but gone is any of the style Eufy used to use in their manuals ... extremely basic. While it covered the install pretty well, there is no explanation of ANY of the settings in the app. In addition, the manual had no spec sheet with information like width of the doorbell or how much memory does it have without adding an SD card. An SD card is not included so how much is the doorbell capable of storing in stand alone mode. I was surprised to learn this doorbell does not work with any previous Eufy chime. What I don't feel is explained adequately if there appears to be four chime options. The three options are in a paragraph that describes how the system works independently it describes three options, the home's existing chime, a Eufy Chime (sold separately) or using Amazon device as a chime. It then describes using doorbell with Homebase, but neglects to say Homebase can be used as a chime. To add to the confusion, the only Eufy chime that is compatible is referred to as a Minibase Chime which can be used to store videos like HomeBase. What is funny is the very first thing described in the manual is how to set up the Minibase Chime even though it is not included in the kit. This takes me to another item not adequately explained. The SD card slot. It shows it in the breakdown diagram identifying items on the doorbell ... but in the description it simply says lift up silicone lid to insert the SD card. I believe there is also a hinged metal frame for the SD that has to be lifted to insert the SD, but if so, the instructions don't mention it. The only other thing that is said about the SD is in the instructions for the Minibase, it says to move the SD from the Minibase to the doorbell. It doesn't say anything about how this memory card would be used when doorbell is being used independently or with Homebase. Upgrading from a previous wired doorbell, I expected the base that is screwed to the doorframe would be the same, but it wasn't. The size of the hole for the doorbell wire is the same, but it is higher in the frame ... so either the doorbell needs to be mounted at least 1/2" lower (i.e. old mounting visible) or you can drill a hole in the plastic frame where it needs to be for the wire. This is what I did. The wiring is very tight and makes it difficult to snap the doorbell onto the frame. I'm thinking I may go back and cut a larger opening in the frame to better accommodate the wire. The video quality and performance is on par with the other Eufy products I have. I do appreciate that it works with Homebase S380. I'm hoping at some point Eufy will produce a new hub that will them provide their system compatibility with Matter over Thread. Now to figure out what is different in the app. It just seems that with moving to more electronic documentation where you don't need to worry about the cost of printing, that it would be nice to use that to provide a manual that really answers all of the questions regarding the product.
One of the best things about the Eufy Video Doorbell C31 is that it doesn’t require a subscription. Unlike many competitors, it offers local storage via an SD card, saving money on cloud fees while ensuring complete privacy. The 24/7 recording capability is also a major advantage, giving me constant surveillance without relying on external services. Initially, I encountered some connectivity issues, but what truly sets this product apart—besides its subscription-free design—is Eufy’s exceptional customer service. Their support team was incredibly responsive, taking my concerns seriously, providing troubleshooting steps, and even working on future firmware updates to improve performance. Thanks to their dedication, most of my major issues have been resolved. The motion detection is another standout feature, especially with customizable activity zones. Living in a high-traffic area, I appreciate how well it filters out unnecessary alerts and only notifies me when it matters. While I still notice occasional small gaps in the 24/7 recording, they are minor and don’t significantly impact functionality. As it stands, the combination of great features, local storage, and top-notch customer support makes this a highly recommended choice.
What a great doorbell camera!!! Love the width of the view and the quality. No subscription needed, just an SD card. We are able to see what’s going on while we are gone. You can also talk to whoever rings the bell.
I have a wireless camera setup by eufy and needed to replace my existing video doorbell. So I took the plunge to a battery setup as the existing power to the doorbell was not enough to make it function. In the setup I told the doorbell to only react to humans as I have a different eufy wireless camera in the garden, with solar charging, but didn’t cover the actual door area and not a doorbell camera. That camera I record everything so I only needed human motion to know and keep a record of who was at the door. It exceeded my expectations, works great, and with only human detection the battery lasts quite awhile. I bought a spare battery for it, so I can change it and the charge up the second battery inside for next time it needs to be changed. Camera quality is awesome! It’s easy to setup, and I have it linked to my eufy base station and do backup video to the eufy cloud (extra charge). This is not required but feel better with a backup. The unit does have a place for a microsd card and comes with a wedge I needed to install due to the angle of the location the original doorbell was installed. As for connectivity it works great with no issues getting signal back to the base. The motion setting on low helps to limit what it responds to. Highly recommended and wish I had done this years ago. Useful video and looks awesome! Also the audio is clear on both ends!